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Boss Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boss

[bÉ’s ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

at work

A person who is in charge of a worker or organization.

Synonyms

director, manager, supervisor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boss

Often used in informal settings to refer to the person in charge of a business or organization. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context.

  • I'll ask my boss if I can leave early today.
  • The boss was not happy with the team's performance.
manager

Commonly used to describe someone with a middle-management role who oversees a team or department. This term is neutral and versatile.

  • He is the manager of the sales department.
  • The store manager handled the customer complaint efficiently.
supervisor

Generally used to describe someone who oversees and directs the work of others, often in more technical or operational contexts.

  • The supervisor conducted the safety training session.
  • Employees are required to report any issues to their supervisor.
director

Typically used in formal settings to describe a high-ranking official in charge of a particular department or area within an organization, often seen in titles.

  • She is the director of marketing at the company.
  • The board of directors decided to invest in new technology.

Examples of usage

  • The boss was not happy with the team's performance.
  • She reported directly to the boss.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

A term used to refer to someone in authority or control.

Synonyms

authority figure, head honcho, leader.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boss

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to someone who has authority over employees. It can be used in formal and informal settings.

  • My boss approved my vacation request
  • She's a great boss who listens to her employees
leader

Used to indicate someone who guides, inspires, and motivates a group of people. It usually carries a positive connotation and is not limited to hierarchical positions.

  • She is a natural leader who inspires her team
  • Every group needs a strong leader to succeed
authority figure

Used to describe someone who holds power or authority in a broader sense and is not limited to the workplace. It can refer to anyone in a position of control or leadership.

  • Parents are usually the first authority figures a child encounters
  • The principal is a key authority figure in a school
head honcho

An informal and somewhat playful term to describe the person in charge, often used in casual conversations. It may sometimes carry a humorous or sarcastic tone.

  • So, you're the new head honcho around here? The head honcho decided to implement some new policies

Examples of usage

  • He's the boss around here.
  • She's the boss of her own life.
Context #3 | Verb

slang

To dominate or be in control of a situation.

Synonyms

command, control, dominate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
boss

Also used as a verb meaning to give orders in a domineering manner. It can have a negative connotation if overused.

  • She likes to boss people around.
  • Stop bossing me!
dominate

Indicates exerting influence or power over others in a way that can often be overbearing or oppressive. This word typically has a negative connotation.

  • The company seeks to dominate the market.
  • He tends to dominate conversations, which annoys people.
control

Refers to having the power to direct or influence people or situations. It is often used in a broader sense beyond just giving orders.

  • She has control over the entire department.
  • He struggled to control his emotions.
command

Implies giving authoritative orders, often in a military or formal context. It reflects a high level of authority.

  • The general commanded the troops to advance.
  • He commands great respect from his team.

Examples of usage

  • She knows how to boss a room.
  • He likes to boss people around.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In popular culture, the character of the 'boss' is often portrayed as either a strict authority figure or a wise mentor, appearing in movies and TV shows.
  • The term has been popularized in songs like 'Take This Job and Shove It', expressing dissatisfaction with authority figures.

Psychology

  • Being labeled 'the boss' can influence a person's behavior, often leading to increased confidence but also potential stress due to responsibility.
  • Research indicates that leadership styles (like authoritative or democratic) can significantly affect team morale and productivity.

Workplace Dynamics

  • Effective bosses often prioritize communication and empathy, understanding that a positive workplace culture can enhance performance.
  • Studies show that employees who respect their bosses are generally more satisfied with their jobs and more productive overall.

Technology

  • In the age of remote work, the role of a boss has evolved, emphasizing skills like virtual communication and understanding digital tools.
  • Tech companies often use the title of 'boss' in a more informal context, with titles like 'team lead' or 'project manager' becoming common in collaborative environments.

Origin of 'boss'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'boss' originated in the early 19th century as a form of 'master' in the Dutch language, meaning 'a person in charge'.
  • Originally, it referred to someone who managed workers, reflecting the dynamics of workplace hierarchies during the Industrial Revolution.

The word 'boss' originated in the mid-19th century as a slang term in the United States. It is believed to have derived from the Dutch word 'baas', meaning master. Over time, 'boss' evolved to refer to a person in charge or in control of others. The term has since become widely used in various contexts to describe a person with authority or leadership qualities.

See also: bossily, bossy, emboss.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,948 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.